Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it with these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies! Imagine biting into a warm, chewy treat that tastes just like a sweet apple pie, topped with a luscious maple icing. This recipe quickly became one of my favorites because it’s not only simple to whip up but also perfect for sharing with friends and family during cozy gatherings or busy weeknights. Trust me, when the aroma fills your kitchen, everyone will come running!

These blondies are incredibly versatile. You can serve them at holiday parties, potlucks, or just as a comforting evening snack with a cup of tea. They are always a hit, making it hard to resist going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious blondies ready in no time!
• Perfectly chewy: The combination of butter and brown sugar creates that irresistible chewy texture everyone loves.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet apple flavors and warm spices.
• Make-ahead option: You can whip these up in advance and store them for later, making dessert planning a breeze!
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry!

For the Blondies

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 large apples (chopped finely)

For the Topping

• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Maple Glaze

• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or pantry staples. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate chocolate: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent twist on these blondies.
• Try different fruits: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly from the moment they go in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 11×7-inch baking pan with tin foil for easy removal later. If you’re not using foil, be sure to spray the pan generously with cooking spray. This step is crucial so that your delicious blondies don’t stick!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk them together until well blended. Mixing dry ingredients first helps ensure even distribution of leavening agents throughout your batter.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your blondies a lovely rise.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Each egg adds moisture and richness to your blondies while enhancing their flavor.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those blondies soft and chewy!

Step 7: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the finely chopped apples. This is where those delicious bites of fruit come into play—each bite will burst with sweet apple goodness!

Step 8: Bake Your Blondies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean but still moist.

Step 9: Prepare Maple Glaze

While your blondies are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and ground cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 10: Drizzle and Enjoy!

Once your blondies are cool enough to handle, drizzle them generously with the warm maple glaze. Cut them into squares and prepare for compliments from everyone who tries them!

Enjoy making these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies; they’re sure to become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

Making these blondies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure they come out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: By letting your butter and eggs sit at room temperature before mixing, you’ll achieve a smoother batter that blends easily, resulting in a tender texture.
• Chop Apples Finely: Finely chopping the apples allows them to distribute evenly throughout the blondies. This ensures that every bite is packed with delicious apple flavor!
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your blondies chewy and prevents them from becoming tough. A light hand goes a long way in baking!
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your blondies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing your blondies to cool before adding the maple glaze helps it set nicely and prevents it from melting into a puddle on top.

How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream offers a light and airy contrast to the dense blondies.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon enhances the warm flavors of the apples and gives your blondies an inviting look.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream complements the warm blondies perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the blondies. Try including berries, oranges, and bananas for variety!
• Hot Tea or Coffee: Pairing these bars with a warm cup of tea or coffee enhances their comforting nature, making for a cozy dessert experience.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some dairy-free caramel sauce over your blondies adds an extra layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist!

Enjoy your delicious Maple Glazed Apple Blondies with these serving suggestions for an unforgettable treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are perfect for meal prep! They store well and maintain their delicious flavor, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or a sweet snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the blondies to cool completely before freezing.
• Cut into individual bars and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen blondies, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, microwave a bar on low power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Maple Glazed Apple Blondies!

Can I use different types of apples in Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Just remember that firmer apples will hold their shape better during baking.

How do I make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies gluten-free?

To make these blondies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results.

What makes Maple Glazed Apple Blondies special?

These blondies combine the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with a rich maple glaze. The chewy texture and warm spices create a cozy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during fall!

Can I add nuts to my Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of your blondies. Just fold them in along with the apples before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has mine! The combination of sweet apples and rich maple glaze makes these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies truly special. Enjoy making them and sharing them with friends and family; they’re bound to become a favorite! Happy baking!